Washington D.C. – Verizon Wireless announced today that its customers can now call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and Mental Crisis Hotline by dialing either 1-800-273-TALK or by dialing a new 988 abbreviated code.
This marks an important milestone in Verizon’s effort to make the Lifeline’s critical resources available to anyone who needs assistance. This effort, created by the FCC, is an initiative that truly has the ability to save lives and make a difference to countless individuals and families. We’re proud to do our part in this critically important endeavor.
More than 47,000 Americans took their own lives in 2017, and that number has been increasing annually. This is an issue that matters and impacts millions of Americans, including far too many who served in our military, as well as at risk groups including LGBTQ youth, Black teens and many others struggling in life, especially during the pandemic.
Callers in need may continue to dial 1-800-273-TALK, but Verizon Wireless customers now have a second option. For now, Verizon landline customers must continue to dial 1-800-273-TALK to reach the Lifeline. Those customers will be able to use the 988 direct dial code starting in July of 2022. More information about 988 is available at https://www.fcc.gov/suicide-prevention-hotline.
This marks an important milestone in Verizon’s effort to make the Lifeline’s critical resources available to anyone who needs assistance.
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